Event participants planted a colorful pinwheel garden to show support of child abuse and neglect prevention programs in the state. The pinwheel is the national symbol of child abuse and neglect prevention.

Speakers at the rally included Children's Trust Fund (CTF) board chair Nancy Moody; CTF interim executive director Paul Shaheen; Children's Charter board president Judge Lisa Sullivan; Rep. John Espinoza, D-Crosswell; Sens. Bill Hardiman, R-Kentwood, and Martha Scott, D-Highland Park; and Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero. Lansing's Averill Elementary School's 5th Grade Choir performed musical selections.

The event was sponsored by the Children's Trust Fund and the Children's Charter of the Courts of Michigan. Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm's proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan.

"CTF is excited to be working with our partners, Children's Charter, Prevent Child Abuse America and our local communities in kicking off Child Abuse Prevention Month," Shaheen said. "The governor's proclamation making April Child Abuse Prevention Month sets the stage for a positive and affirmative commitment for all Michigan citizens to do their part to help our kids be treated with dignity and respect."

CTF is Michigan's only independent, statewide, nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Since 1982, CTF has generated more than $60 million to support prevention programs and services in communities. Additionally, CTF funds 72 local child abuse and neglect prevention councils that serve 82 of Michigan's 83 counties and administers more than 65 community-based direct service grants across the state including childhood development programs, respite care and home visitation programs.

Last year, 29,638 children were abused or neglected in Michigan.

For more information, please visit the CTF Web site at www.michigan.gov/ctf